Asus releases ZenScreen Smart MS27UC as new 4K compact hybrid monitor for $449
Asus' latest smart monitor is now available internationally, having been presented in the spring. Specifically, the ZenScreen Smart MS27UC has reached at least Europe and the US, where it costs €455 and $449.99, respectively, from retailers like Amazon.
While expensive on the face of it, Asus hopes that the ZenScreen Smart MS27UC can serve as two monitors in one. On the one hand, the ZenScreen Smart MS27UC integrates DisplayPort, HDMI and USB Type-C (DisplayPort Alt Mode) video inputs. Incidentally, the latter can also recharge connected devices at up to 90 W.
On the other hand, Asus has integrated Google TV, a pair of 5 W Harman Kardon tuned speakers and Bluetooth 5.2/Wi-Fi connectivity. Moreover, the ZenScreen Smart MS27UC supports Chromecast and Miracast software for casting from other devices. Thus, it can serve as a monitor or a Smart TV when needed, all the while retaining a 4K native resolution across a 27-inch IPS panel.
For reference, the panel itself delivers 350 nits of typical brightness, 400 nits when playing HDR content and a 1,000:1 contrast ratio. Furthermore, it should provide 178°/178° (CR≧10, H/V) viewing angles, but only 5 ms GtG response times and a 60 Hz refresh rate. Please see Asus' website for more details.
